Maisie Williams celebrity shoot (Adopt, don’t shop)

You might assume that celebrities who have hit the big time would just go and spend mega-bucks with a pedigree breeder when the time comes that they decide they want a furry friend, but that line of action didn’t sit right with internationally acclaimed actress Maisie Williams (aka Arya Stark from Game of Thrones).

Maisie actively supports the #adoptdontshop message and adopted her dog Sonny from the RSPCA in Bristol earlier this year. She felt that it was of the utmost importance that she avoided inadvertently supporting the cruel puppy trade, and would like to encourage others to follow her lead (pardon the expression!)

Maisie recently returned for an impromptu visit to the Bristol dogs home to check in with staff, visit the animals and proudly show off a healthy and happy Sonny and I (Carly) was lucky enough to be asked to photograph the occasion.

Many walls at the RSPCA have been recently decorated walls by a talented local Bristol-based graffiti artist, Ollie at Gage Graphics, so I was spoilt for choice when choosing a backdrop.

Sonny and Maisie had a good laugh on the shoot and an effortlessly relaxed relationship that was beautiful to capture on camera.

I wasn’t sure what to expect of Maisie but she was kind, funny, and totally down-to-earth, certainly not someone who has let fame get to her head.

It was not just an exciting day because it was the first celebrity shoot for The Pet Collective, but also due to the fact that we’re always thrilled to hear other people actively promoting rescue centres over back yard breeders and puppy farms.

When the #adoptdontshop message is coming directly from an intelligent and respected celebrity such as Maisie Williams with easy access to a huge audience spanning all ages, the potential for positive action is massive.

If you’re thinking of getting a pet why not consider visiting a rehoming centre?

Bristol has some fantastic places like the RSPCA (where Maisie adopted her dog Sonny) and Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary (where we adopted our 3 kitties) that are sadly always overflowing with the sweetest animals patiently waiting for their forever homes.

If you’re anything like us at The Pet Collective, you’d feel much more comfortable knowing you’ve supported a struggling charity instead of lining the pockets of some of the many irresponsible and heartless breeders out there.

If you’d like to see the RSPCA Bristol feature on this shoot, please click here.

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Pet photoshoots aren’t just for TV celebrities! If you’ve got a dog or a cat (or indeed any pet) who hasn’t featured in any professional photos yet, why not view our portfolio or get in touch and see what we could do?